John Michael Hickson, Asbestos Violations, Washington 2016

Spokane, WA – John Michael Hickson was sentenced to 60 days in jail after pleading guilty to violating Washington State’s Clean Air Act, stemming from illegal asbestos renovation work conducted at a Spokane hotel in 2013 and 2014. The case, prosecuted by the Washington State Department of Ecology, highlights the dangers of improper asbestos handling and the legal ramifications for those who disregard environmental regulations.

The violations occurred during extensive renovations at the former Spokane House Hotel, located at 4301 W. Sunset Blvd. 2013 Investors, under the direction of Hickson, undertook a large-scale remodel of the 89-room building without first conducting the legally required asbestos surveys. These surveys are crucial for identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACM) present within a building before any demolition or renovation work begins. Furthermore, the company failed to secure the necessary permits from the city of Spokane to legally and safely remove any asbestos that was present.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral fiber, was widely used in building materials for much of the 20th century due to its heat resistance and insulating properties. However, it’s now known to be a significant health hazard. When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they become airborne and can be inhaled, leading to serious and potentially fatal diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Proper handling and abatement procedures are legally mandated to protect workers and the public from these risks.

On August 26, 2016, Hickson entered guilty pleas in Spokane County Superior Court on three counts of violating Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 70.94.030, which covers requirements for asbestos management and control. The 60-day jail sentence is to be served concurrently with a separate, unrelated federal criminal offense already being served by Hickson. While the sentence provides some measure of accountability, environmental advocates argue that penalties for asbestos violations often fail to adequately deter future offenses.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: John Michael Hickson
Location: 4301 W. Sunset Blvd., Spokane, WA
Statute Violated: Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 70.94.030 – Washington State Clean Air Act (asbestos provisions)
Violation: Failure to conduct asbestos surveys and obtain required permits before renovating a hotel.
Penalty: 60 days in jail (concurrent with other sentence).
Building: Former Spokane House Hotel (89-room)

The Department of Ecology continues to emphasize the importance of asbestos awareness and compliance with state regulations. Building owners and contractors are legally obligated to identify, manage, and safely remove asbestos-containing materials to protect public health and avoid criminal penalties. GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on further developments in environmental crime within the state of Washington.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

Related Federal Cases